Elite education

Why More South Africans Are Studying Abroad in 2025

Published

2 months ago

July 11, 2025

Chiraag

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From Johannesburg to Cambridge, students are packing their bags and expanding their worldviews.

In 2025, the dream of studying abroad isn’t reserved for the ultra-wealthy or a niche academic elite. More and more South African students are trading lecture halls at home for campuses across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, fueled by scholarships, flexible programmes, and a hunger for global perspective.

But what’s really driving this shift? And where are young South Africans going?

Also read: The Culinary Crown Jewel of SA: Why ICA Is Where the Best Go to Train

From Mzansi to the World

There’s something quietly revolutionary happening in South African education. More learners are choosing to finish their degrees, or at least part of them, overseas. While it might sound like a luxury, it’s quickly becoming a strategic move. Think of it as a passport to better opportunity.

International universities, often viewed as out of reach, are now opening their doors through remote applications, third-party programme providers, and direct partnerships with local institutions. Whether it’s for a semester, a year, or a full degree, students are chasing everything from creative arts in Ireland to robotics in Japan.

Not Just Books: A Life-Changing Experience

Ask anyone who’s studied abroad, and they’ll say the same thing: it’s more than just academics.

Living in a new country challenges you to adapt, builds independence, and deepens your understanding of how the world actually works. You learn to navigate different languages, customs, and mindsets. Employers notice that too.

Cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, and global awareness are increasingly valued in the job market. For South African students, this international edge can set them apart in a competitive local scene.

Where Are SA Students Heading?

Some of the most popular destinations in 2025 include

Ireland for arts and literature, where students immerse themselves in storytelling traditions and creative studies.
Japan for tech and innovation, perfect for those in STEM fields who want to learn from the world’s leading researchers.
England for its academic prestige and ease of language for first-time travellers.
South Korea, France, and Spain are also rising favourites, especially for students interested in culture, media, or learning a new language.

Costs and Scholarships: Is It Affordable?

Studying abroad can be pricey. On average, a third-party semester programme costs between $10,000 and $15,000 USD. But that’s where planning comes in.

Many South Africans are making it happen through scholarships, government funding, and institution-specific grants. Some countries, like Germany and France, offer low or even free tuition to international students, though living expenses still apply.

There’s also a growing list of scholarships specifically for BIPOC students and those from developing economies. Advisors recommend applying early and being persistent; many students don’t know they qualify until they ask.

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Image 1: Pexels

What You Need to Get Started

Thinking of going? Here’s what to prepare:

Research universities and destinations based on your field
Choose a programme that fits your academic goals and comfort level
Prepare your application, transcripts, and personal statement
Get your visa sorted early
Plan your accommodation, travel insurance, and vaccinations
Start packing and keep an open mind

What Students Are Saying

Recent reviews from South African students studying in countries like Greece and South Korea tell a clear story: it’s transformative.

“This experience transformed how I view leadership, faith, and cross-cultural connection,” wrote one Cape Town student on an immersive programme.
“I fell in love with Greece through the local friendships I made,” another review said.
“I joined my university’s study abroad advising team just to encourage others to go,” a student from Durban added.

The takeaway? It’s not just about where you go, but how deeply you engage when you get there.

Studying abroad isn’t just about swapping classrooms. It’s about perspective, adaptability, and creating global citizens who return to South Africa with bigger ideas and bolder confidence.

In 2025, the path is clearer than ever. Whether you’re an art student chasing inspiration in Barcelona or an engineer diving into AI in Tokyo, your future might just begin with a boarding pass.